Mr. Phillips led a discussion of his latest book, Wealth and Democracy: A Political History of the American Rich, published by Broadway Books. The author asserts that while most American conservatives would equate less government with more money, the rich do not because much of their prosperity is a result of the preferential treatment they receive from the government. The author also asserts that as the rich have amassed wealth, their influence in politics and government has grown as well. Mr. Phillips was joined by two Syracuse University professors who responded to his presentation. The participants also answered questions from members of the audience.